Tuesday, February 26, 2008

SMILES TO GO by Jerry Spinelli

I've been a long-time Jerry Spinelli fan and was truly excited when given the chance to review his latest, SMILES TO GO. I'm happy to report that Spinelli has created a story that I believe is perfect for his maturing fan base. Those who fell in love with MANIAC MAGEE and WRINGER will be ready for this new novel.

Will Tuppence is a freshman. He spends his days skateboarding, playing Monopoly with his two best friends, Mi-Su and BT, and star-gazing at far-away galaxies. As normal as that sounds, there is another side to Will. His fascination with science gives him a serious approach to life. Recent news that the proton can actually die has Will constantly concerned about just how long life can go on.His concern about protons becomes the underlying thought that occupies his mind as he stumbles through his freshman year.

Other things in addition to the proton problem are beginning to spin out of control for Will. After witnessing a secret kiss between Mi-Su and BT, he starts to wonder why he hasn't tried to kiss Mi-Su. She is suddenly looking like more than just a mere friend. Skateboarding is a great pasttime until BT manages the impossible - a death-defying ride down Dead Man's Hill. How can Will even attempt to match that? There is also the constant pestering of Will's little sister, Tabby. How can he concentrate on his school work or attempt to train for the upcoming chess tournament when she's like an annoying mosquito buzzing through his life?

Spinelli takes his readers into the life of Will Tuppence. In his traditional straight-forward style, he presents Will's challenges and triumphs in a way that had me chuckling and teary-eyed, often at the same time. As I mentioned earlier, I think Spinelli recognizes that his loyal fans are now a bit older and has given them a story to sink their more mature teeth into.

9 comments:

I thought the book was great also! I read it for my summer reading and I need to write down how many pages are in the book but I forgot to look before I gave the book back to my teacher!! So if anyone knows how many pages are in "Smiles To Go" by Jerry Spinelli, then PLEASSEEE write back next to my comment!!!!

Great Review!Hello, I also am reading this book for school and enjoyed it greatly! Unfortunately I read it a few weeks ago and don't have the book anymore! Does anyone at all remember the setting of this book? Thanks so so much!!!

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